THINNING COAT

Question
My 11 yr. old 4.6# poodle was previously on Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food and I switched her to holistic dry dog food. Her coat got silkier, whiter, and she no longer has eye stains. But her coat also got very thin right across her spine.

I would like to keep her on the holistic food because I know it's much healthier; what can I do to thicken her coat? Someone suggested 1/4 tsp. of olive oil over her food daily. But you're the pro; what's your suggestion?

Thank you,
Debbie

Answer
Greetings, Debbie!
My first question to you is, are you using any of the spot on the back flea preventatives? If so, discontinue using immediately and go for a natural alternative (more info on this on htt://www.critteroil.com in the articles section,etc.) I have seen the coat thinning on the spine very routinely on dogs using these products.

As to food, be sure that your holistic food contains NO wheat, corn, soy, dairy or beef: and that NOTHING that goes in her mouth contains any of these things. That includes chewable vitamins, and other vet type things as well as shacks,etc. Remove any internal toxins like Comfortis, Heartworm Preventatives (there are very effective homeopathic substitutes), etc.

You may consider adding an enzyme and pro-biotic supplement. Seameal from Solid Gold is an excellent choice because it is also very rich in trace minerals which are awesome for an older dog.
A fish oil base omega supplement is also appropriate for coat and joints and is somewhat superior to olive oil for a dog.

If you have one of the pre-prepared, frozen raw diets available in your area, you might also consider using one as at least 50% or even her entire diet. They build muscle instead of fat, awesome coats, clean teeth, and many other benefits as well.

Take care!
Sue